How to Bring a Service Dog to Universal Studios

If you want to bring your service dog to Universal Studios, you’ll be warmly welcomed. Even though normal pets may be prohibited, service dogs are allowed to enter Universal’s theme parks thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act.

We’ll tell you all about Universal’s policies about service dogs and provide a helpful guide for first-timers. 

Understanding Universal Studios’ Service Dog Rules 

At Universal Studios, service dogs can join you in all restaurants, shows, and retail locations across the park. However, service dogs can’t accompany their handlers at all attractions. Some attractions just can’t accommodate a handler and their dog safely. Universal can provide a dog kennel for handlers to keep their dogs in while they ride. 

While at the park, service dogs must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered unless these items interfere with the dog’s ability to perform its tasks. If the handler can’t use these items, they can maintain control through voice, signal, or other effective controls.

While on any ride or attraction that allows service dogs, the dog must remain on the floor of the ride vehicle, and the tail and appendages must stay confined within that floor space.

Universal Studios Service Dog Verification 

How do you prove that your dog is a service animal at Universal Studios? The same way you would for all venues under the ADA. You don’t need to present any documents for your service dog, 

Universal Studios staff can ask you two questions verbally to confirm that you are being accompanied by a service dog: 1. Is the dog a service dog required for a disability? and 2. What work or task has the service dog been trained to perform?

Service dog accessories like tags, vests, and ID cards are optional, but most service dog owners will use these items in environments where dogs are not typically allowed. It’s always helpful for staff and the people around you when they can immediately recognize that your dog is a service dog that should not be interfered with. 

Service Dog Relief Stations 

Universal has relief areas for service dogs at select locations throughout the parks.

Universal Studios Hollywood 

• Upper Lot: Near the entrance to the Studio Tour.
• Lower Lot: Next to the Starway, across from the Jurassic World lagoon.
• Outside the Park: By the accessible parking adjacent to the security checkpoint.

Universal Studios Orlando 

• Next to the World Expo 
• Between the Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone and Hollywood 

Check the official Universal Orlando map for the exact location of these relief stations. 

Rides Where Service Dogs are Not Allowed

Some attractions at Universal are off-limits to service dog owners due to safety considerations.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Service dogs can’t come along on these attractions in Hollywood:

• Flight of the Hippogriff
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Jurassic World – The Ride
• Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
• Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride
• The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

Universal Orlando

In Orlando, service dogs can’t come along to these attractions:

• Flight of the Hippogriff
• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
• Pteranodon Flyers
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Jurassic World VelociCoaster
• Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster
• Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit 
• Revenge of the Mummy
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack

No matter which park you visit, make sure to read the latest rider safety guides to learn which rides have restrictions. You can find the guide for Universal Studios Hollywood here and for Orlando here. 

Tips for Being with Your Dog at Universal Studios

Here are 5 tips for bringing your dog to Universal Studios from service dog owners. 

1. Prepare for the Weather
   During the summer, take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas to prevent overheating. Be aware of the temperature of the asphalt during hot days, as it can be much hotter than the air temperature and potentially harm your dog’s paws.
2. Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior and Health
   Watch for signs of stress or discomfort. If your dog seems overwhelmed, find a quiet spot to relax away from the crowds.
3. Plan Your Visit
   Know which attractions are service animal friendly and plan your visit around them. Avoid peak times to avoid long waits and reduce your dog’s stress.
4. Familiarize Your Dog with Crowds
   Universal Studios can be a crowded and celebratory place. Before your trip, gradually expose your dog to environments that mimic the sights, sounds, and crowds they will experience at Universal Studios. This can help reduce their stress and make them more comfortable during your visit.
5. Bring Necessary Supplies
   Collapsible bowls are convenient for travel and easily carried in a backpack. If your dog has a favorite toy or blanket that can provide comfort in new environments, consider bringing it along.